Black Friday 2013 marked the end of a self-imposed
challenge. I challenged myself on Black
Friday 2012 that I would go one entire year without purchasing clothes for
myself. There were exceptions, which
included: accessories, shoes, and bridesmaids attire. Well, I didn’t have to buy any bridesmaid’s
attire- none of my friends tied the knot in 2013. I did buy some accessories (scarves,
headbands, jewelry). I managed to get by
with buying only two pairs of shoes. So,
overall, I did really good! I completed
the challenge and feel really good about that.
I must admit though, it wasn’t that hard considering all the diapers,
baby clothes, and milk($27.99 for a can) that I’ve bought this year! After buying for the baby, there was hardly
any money left to spend on myself anyway.
We need self-imposed challenges every once in a while. It keeps us in check. You know, it brings things into
perspective. Even a challenge as
trivial as “buying no clothes for one year” is enough to help shape and mold
us. Now, don’t misunderstand me- I still LOVE to shop. For instance, I bought 6 shirts on our Black
Friday extravaganza and it was orgasmic (OMGee, did I just say that). I never knew I missed shopping sooooo much!
Despite how much I missed my regular shopping sprees, I’ve
grown quite a bit in the last year. I’ve
been able to better separate the things I “need” from the things I “want”. And boy, has it made a world of difference. I’ve been able to center my thoughts and make
some hard, but necessary decisions about my life. The hardest decision has been to leave my
current firm as an attorney and follow some of my passions. I’ve been able to admit some really difficult
truths to myself. The hardest truth has
been that I’m not doing nearly enough for my God. I should be touching more people each day and
sharing my beliefs more openly.
I started this challenge, hoping to save money and maybe rearrange my wardrobe. But, I’ll be ending this challenge with a set of new values. What’s important in life has absolutely NOTHING to do with how much money I spend or don’t spend on clothes in a given year..... So, what started out as a superficial challenge, has added much need sustenance to my life. For that, I am Thankful. So, try it for yourself. Think long and hard; choose one SMALL CHALLENGE and sit back and see what kind of BIG CHANGE it brings about. You'll be surprised:)
I started this challenge, hoping to save money and maybe rearrange my wardrobe. But, I’ll be ending this challenge with a set of new values. What’s important in life has absolutely NOTHING to do with how much money I spend or don’t spend on clothes in a given year..... So, what started out as a superficial challenge, has added much need sustenance to my life. For that, I am Thankful. So, try it for yourself. Think long and hard; choose one SMALL CHALLENGE and sit back and see what kind of BIG CHANGE it brings about. You'll be surprised:)
I love this post too! I have been trying to challenge myself year after year and month after month to stop buying clothes, but I never go through with it. I like the fact that you didn't limit yourself from all things fashionable, but just clothing. That makes it a little easier. I think I'm ready to do it now!!
ReplyDeleteThis was one of the most liberating things I've ever done. I developed so much self- control, sense of personal style, and character. I never knew something that seemed so materialistic could bring about so much growth. I say go for it! Tailor it to fit your lifestyle and you'll feel accomplished.
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